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Amelia Island in Winter Must Try Activities for Your Getaway

Travelers — especially Northerners — head south when winter sets in, and Amelia Island in winter tops the list. Mild weather makes outdoor exploring easy and appealing.

Seasonal events draw in book lovers, foodies, and history fans alike. Couples also love this quieter season for relaxed, quality time together. Winter is different down here, making the perfect destination to spend quality time with your favorite people.

The Gorgeous Weather

Even in the coldest months, Amelia Island weather reaches temperatures in the high 60s. This makes for pleasant outdoor adventures like walks in nearby parks and beaches. 

Travel Tip: View our Seasonal Guide on the best time of year to visit Amelia Island.

Take Advantage of Fewer Crowds

There are often fewer crowds on the island in the winter. That means no lines, no waiting, and lots of privacy and space to explore all that Fernandina Beach has to offer!

Attend Exciting Events

Winter ushers in an exciting array of events and festivals for the whole family! Get into the holiday spirit at events like Dickens on Centre or experience live music at an Amelia Chamber Music Festival event. 

Some of our favorite winter events include: 

Get in the Holiday Spirit 

Celebrate the holidays on Amelia Island! Join in on all the fun and festivities by attending exciting events. Go Christmas shopping for one-of-a-kind gifts in downtown Fernandina Beach. You can even get a healthy dose of holiday cheer in our beautifully decorated accommodations at Fairbanks! We like to put a Christmas tree in every room. 

cedar waxwing perched on a leafy branch holding a red berry in its beak

Encounter Unique Species

Florida’s diverse landscapes make winter an ideal season for birding. Late January and early February bring the chance to spot piping plovers, indigo buntings, and cedar waxwings. Cedar waxwings are especially fun to watch. They often flock to the Fairbanks House to strip berries before continuing along their migratory route.

 

Visit Amelia Island State Park

Amelia Island State Park's 200+ acres of protected wilderness are a great place to stretch out and take a walk during the winter. Take nature photos, walk through the trails, or go horseback riding on the beach during dawn or dusk!

The Best New Year's Eve Celebration

What goes together better than the New Year and shrimp? Amelia Island's iconic shrimp drop is one of the highlights of the Winter months!

Shopping

Craving a little retail therapy or a fun afternoon out? Fernandina Beach offers a variety of shopping options.

hand holding a portafilter filled with ground coffee while preparing an espresso machine

Visit a Local Coffee Shop

If the morning is surprisingly chilly, grab a cup of coffee at one of our favorite coffee shops on the island!

Make the Most of Your Stay at Fairbanks House

Amelia Island in winter feels calm and unhurried, especially when you stay at Fairbanks House. Charming, uniquely appointed rooms pair well with thoughtful amenities that make settling in easy.

Winter also brings a chance to save on your stay. Our “cuddle-up season” rates run from November through February and apply to all packages, making birthdays, anniversaries, and casual escapes feel even better.

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Updated 2026



Photo Credit: © Ruth Peterkin via canva.com, © Jun Zhou via canva.com, © Kader D. Kahraman from Pexels via canva.com